Pudge on his way out of Detroit?

While it would be a surprise for the Detroit Tigers to trade Pudge Rodriguez at the trade deadline, at the same time, he is unlikely to return to the team next season. On Monday, the Detroit Free Press looked at the future of the Tigers catcher.

Rodriguez will be a free agent at the end of this season. He could also be traded next month if the Tigers fall out of the American League Central race.

When he was asked Sunday about his approach to free agency -- and whether he would consider waiving his limited no-trade clause -- his response was the same.

"I'm ready for anything," Rodriguez said.

With each passing day, it seems more likely that Rodriguez will test the open market this winter. Rodriguez, who is earning $13 million this year, said the team has yet to approach him regarding a contract extension for next season.